Prioritizing Self-Care: Finding Balance Between Work and Well-Being
If you’re like me, it’s easy to get caught up in the demands of work and all of the other things that seem to eat up all of your time and energy. In the hustle and bustle of professional life, it's easy to get caught up in the demands of work and lose sight of an essential truth: your well-being is just as important as your work.
As a teacher, it’s easy to slip into a sort of all-consuming work coma. I bring work home “for the kids.” I go to athletic events and plays “for the kids.” I spend my weekends prepping and working “for the kids.” I eat vending machine dinner and run from activity to activity “for the kids.” And at some point, there’s not a lot of me left.
This year, the Lord has been teaching me the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between my career and personal well-being. The best thing I can do for my students is to make sure I am a healthy, happy and encouraging presence in their lives. It’s important to take care of myself physically, spiritually and mentally to be able to show up 100% for them each morning.
Between your career, workload at home and family I know how easy it is to forget yourself in the equation. Somewhere between late nights at the office, early morning practices with the kids, or simply supporting all the people around you, you have to find a little space to take care of yourself.
Here’s some ways I’ve been reprioritizing myself this year. I hope you’ll find this list helpful:
Morning moment:
Start your day with a few moments of quiet reflection, prayer, and deep breathing.
Establish a morning routine that includes activities you enjoy, such as reading, stretching, or a brief workout.
Make time for Meals:
Prioritize balanced and nutritious meals to support your energy levels.
Plan and prepare meals in advance to avoid relying on unhealthy snacks or fast food during busy workdays.
Use meals as an intentional time to slow down. Sit down and eat. Do it with someone that builds you up or listen to music or pray.
Hydration:
Stay hydrated throughout the day by keeping a water bottle with you.
Switch some of those coffees out for herbal tea (I know, I know…) This helps keep anxiety at bay.
Regular Exercise:
Find a physical activity you enjoy, whether it's a workout class, a jog, or yoga. Even just taking a few moments to get up and walk around the office is a great way to boost your energy!
Digital Detox:
Use technology-free breaks to recharge and focus on non-screen activities.
Stay off your phone in the evening. It will help you to relax, connect with those around you and also helps so much with your sleep!
I stopped checking work email on the weekends.
Plan and Prioritize Sleep:
Prioritize a consistent sleep schedule to ensure you get enough rest each night.
Create a calming bedtime routine to signal to your body that it's time to unwind. For me, it’s turning down the lights, reading, drinking some herbal tea and snuggling with my pup.
Create time to be creative:
Engage in creative or expressive activities that bring you joy, such as journaling, drawing, or playing a musical instrument at least once a week.
Don’t be scared of Boundaries:
Learn to say 'no' when necessary and set clear boundaries between work and personal life.
Communicate your boundaries to colleagues and family members to avoid unnecessary stress.
Spend time with those you love:
Prioritize time with friends and family to nurture your relationships.
Schedule regular social activities to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development:
I know it sounds counter-intuitive, but investing time in activities that contribute to your professional growth is so encouraging.
Attend workshops, webinars, or conferences related to your field of interest.
Practice Gratitude:
Start a gratitude journal, noting down positive aspects of your life and work. I find it so encouraging to pray through this journal, thanking God for all he’s done.
Your well-being is not a luxury; it's a fundamental aspect of a successful and fulfilling life. By recognizing the importance of balance, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care, you can create a work environment that not only enhances your productivity but also contributes to your overall happiness and success. Remember, your well-being is just as important as your work—make it a priority.
Jo is a designer, photographer, hand lettering artist and educator based in Dallas. She is passionate about design and inspiring other’s creativity. When she's not at her computer or in the classroom, she's in the kitchen whipping something up, remodeling her 1950’s house, planning her next trip, or learning something new (right now, she's learning all about wine).